DOOR staff at busy city centre night spots have won praise for helping to protect revellers from crime.

Police said there were “some fantastic examples” of the work of staff on the doors of some of Newcastle’s prominent licensed premises.

Working with local police it has led directly to arrests for violent and sexual offences, while several vulnerable people have received assistance in difficult and potentially life-threatening situations.

Chief Inspector David Pickett said: “Keeping people safe in Newcastle on a night time is a real team effort and police rely on the help of the door staff and other partners to make sure this is the case.

“It’s fantastic to get feedback first-hand about some of the excellent work they are doing and I really wanted to thank them publically for their dedication and professionalism.”

Recent examples include door staff at Tiger Tiger ensuring the safety of a young woman who passed out in a toilet cubicle.

She was given initial support and care before being taken to hospital for treatment, going on to make a full recovery.

Her family was kept fully informed throughout the process.

A sexual offender was pinpointed after a review of cctv images at a briefing with door staff, while several violent incidents have been resolved with their assistance.

Door staff and police are now also working closely with the recently launched Safe Haven, funded by Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Vera Baird and the North-East Ambulance Service, to help provide protection for vulnerable people.

It offers a secure environment for revellers in distress on a night out in the city centre, backed by St John Ambulance volunteers, offering first-aid treatment, where necessary.

Ms Baird said: “Our safety and vulnerability training for door staff is one of many great initiatives taking place in Newcastle helping safeguard people on a night out.

“It’s vital that we all work together to look after those who find themselves in a vulnerable situation, whatever the circumstances.”

Safe Haven, in the Bigg Market, is open from 10pm until 4am on Friday and Saturday nights.